Elsie Dixon

My Journey started in June 1990 on my 40th birthday. Doing self-examination, I found a lump on my left breast. While thinking it would go away, it only got bigger. I mentioned it to my daughter who said I should call my doctor. She was worried something was wrong. My doctor at the time, examined me and recommended I get a mammogram, which I did. As I waited for the news, I was very nervous and when the results came in, it was that I have “breast cancer”.

In denial, I wanted another opinion. My doctor referred me to a specialist who confirmed it was “cancer”. Both doctors suggested surgery immediately because the cancer was far advanced. After explaining everything to my children, we agreed to a total mastectomy with the removal of lots of lymph nodes. I then needed chemotherapy and radiation to rid myself of this cancer. The process was very long and it was a very difficult year for me.

My children were by my side every step of the way. I thank God for them. While trying to recover after surgery and continuing with the other treatments, I developed phlebitis in the left arm. Fluid had built up and it made my left side very sore and tender. I was not able to use it for a long time.

With prayers from friends and family and thinking positively, recovery was a little better to deal with. I am now 17 years cancer free. I have a new outlook on life, and I take it one day at a time. “Thank God for my children.”